Church House Inn
Imagine stepping into pure bliss. Right at the front, you'll discover a radiant beer garden sprawled out, simply begging you to unwind. Picture yourself sinking into a comfortable deck chair, perfectly shaded by a stylish sun umbrella, as you soak in the serene beauty of the picturesque village unfolding before your very eyes. It's truly the perfect spot to bask in the sunshine and let your worries melt away.
There's a fair selection of beers, real ales, and ciders, all expertly on tap and ready to tantalize your taste buds. On our visit, we absolutely loved sipping on a refreshing pint of Devon Red cider and a classic pint of Ferryman. Each sip was pure bliss, And the experience is made even better by the incredibly friendly and welcoming bar staff who are always ready with a smile.
This isn't just any pub; it's a historical treasure. The building itself radiates character, boasting a stunning entrance adorned with beautiful stained-glass windows depicting monks – a truly unique and captivating detail. Step further inside and you'll discover an "old-worldy" yet wonderfully trendy interior, brimming with absolutely beautiful features and an undeniable sense of charm. Every corner seems to tell a story, making it a fabulous place to simply soak in the atmosphere.
While we didn't get to indulge this time, our eyes were certainly feasting. The dishes we saw looked incredibly tasty and wonderfully prepared, creating an irresistible temptation. There's no doubt about it – trying the food will be an absolute must on our very next visit.
P&P
Background....
It's much more than just a pub; it's a living piece of Devon's heritage.
Here's a breakdown of its history and background:
Ancient Origins (1028 onwards): There's evidence of a building on the site as far back as 1028, making it one of the oldest pub sites in Devon, if not England.
Built for Stonemasons (1329): The earliest significant structure on the site, which forms the core of the current building, was originally constructed in 1329. It began its life as a "Devon Longhouse." Its initial purpose was to accommodate the stonemasons who were engaged in building the adjacent St. Mary the Virgin Church in Holne.
It's believed ale would have been produced here even then.
Monastic Retreat (1400s): In the 15th century, the building took on a new role. It became a retreat and place of hospitality for clergy and monks from the nearby Buckfast Abbey. To accommodate the increased need for lodging, an upper floor was added to the building. This period is likely when it truly began to function as a "Church House," providing lodging and sustenance associated with the church.
Transition to an Inn and Later Alterations (16th-18th Centuries):
While some parts of the present building might date back to the 12th century, most of its structure dates from the 16th century when both the building and the Church underwent major overhauls. These structural elements contribute significantly to the pub's ancient atmosphere.
The main bar screen is said to date back to the time of the Spanish Armada (late 16th century).
According to 1818 records, the house was let as an inn, with rent paid to the churchwardens, indicating its established status as a public house by this time.
The main room, now named after author Charles Kingsley (who was born in the Holne vicarage), contains a 16th-century oak screen and an 18th-century elm bench seat.
The present staircase dates from the late 18th or early 19th century.
Oliver Cromwell's Alleged Stay: Local legend holds that Oliver Cromwell himself stayed at the Church House Inn during the English Civil War (mid-17th century), stabling his horse in the village.
Listed Building Status: The Church House Inn is officially recognized for its historical and architectural significance. It is a Grade II Listed Building, first listed on May 27, 1986. This protection ensures the preservation of its special character.
Traditional Devon Pub: Today, the Church House Inn remains a traditional Devon village pub, retaining much of its character with stone walls and exposed timber beams. It's a popular spot for locals, ramblers, and holidaymakers exploring Dartmoor, offering comfortable guest rooms, homecooked food, and a friendly bar. It also boasts a lovely beer garden with a stream and chickens.
In summary, the Church House Inn is not just a pub but a venerable institution with a continuous history spanning centuries, deeply intertwined with the ecclesiastical and social life of Holne village and the wider Dartmoor area. Its origins as a building for church stonemasons and later as a monastic retreat speak volumes about its
enduring legacy.
